Systems and devices for emitting volatile compositions

ABSTRACT

Methods and devices for emitting volatile materials are disclosed. In some embodiments, methods and devices for emitting two or more fragrance compositions are disclosed. In one non-limiting embodiment of a device, the device has a housing, and the housing is supported on an electrical outlet by a plug at least indirectly joined to the housing. The device contains a first volatile composition and a second volatile composition. The first volatile composition is emitted in an alternating period relative to said second volatile composition. In one embodiment of the method, the volatile compositions are alternately emitted during periods that are greater than 15 minutes and less than 2 hours.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 09/904,019, filed Jul. 12, 2001, which claims thebenefit of the filing dates of, and is a continuation-in-part of: PCTapplication Serial No. US00/20499, filed Jul. 27, 2000, and U.S. patentapplication Ser. Nos. 09/730,226; 09/730,261; and 09/730,333, all filedDec. 5, 2000, the disclosures of which are all incorporated by referenceherein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates to methods and devices for emittingvolatile compositions. In some embodiments, the invention relates to amethod and devices for emitting two or more distinct volatilecompositions.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] It is generally known to use an electrical device to evaporate aperfume and/or fragrance composition into a space, particularly adomestic space, e.g., a living room, to provide a pleasant aroma. Thereare a variety of such devices on sale, for example the AIRWICK® DiffuserACTIF® (manufactured by Reckitt Benckiser) or the AMBI-PUR® fragrancediffuser (manufactured by Sara Lee). Generally, these devices consist ofa perfume or fragrance source, an electrical heater and a power supply.By the application of heat to the perfume or fragrance source, therewill be a continuous supply of the perfume or fragrance to the space inwhich the device is placed.

[0004] The problem with this arrangement is that a person occupying thespace will quickly become accustomed to the perfume or fragrance and,after a while, will not perceive the fragrance strength as being asintense and may not notice it at all. This is a well-known phenomenoncalled habituation. A solution to this problem has been sought.

[0005] One effort to deal with this problem is described in U.S. patentapplication Publication No. US 2002/0159916 A1, Whitby, et al. TheWhitby, et al. patent application discloses a method and device adaptedto provide to a space, two or more fragrance compositions, at least oneof which fragrance compositions is provided periodically. The method anddevice may provide a continuous supply of a first fragrance compositionand a periodic supply of a second fragrance composition. The fragrancecomposition(s) may be vaporized by heating and may include deodorantand/or insecticidal compounds. The fragrance compositions are preferablychosen such that the two fragrance compositions contrast with oneanother or have different notes. The fragrance composition is generallypulsed from a device which includes a heater. The periodic supply ofheat to release the fragrance composition is controlled by providing thedevice, and particularly the heater, with a controller. The controlleris in the form of an electronic circuit. The controller is arranged suchthat the heater runs for a short period of time, preferably from 15seconds to 15 minutes with “appropriate intervals of time therebetween”.

[0006] The Whitby, et al. patent application, however, appears to bedirected primarily to maintaining or sustaining the olfactory impact ofthe fragrance composition being emitted continuously, rather than toproviding to the user noticeable changes in fragrances. In addition,although the Whitby, et al. patent application mentions periodic supplyof two or more fragrances, there is no specific teaching of emissionpatterns or programs dictating the supply of the different fragrancesrelative to each other so that the users actually experience distinctfragrances rather than one fragrance which is a blend of the twocompositions.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] The present invention relates to methods and devices for emittingvolatile compositions. In some embodiments, the invention relates to amethod and devices for emitting two or more fragrance compositions.There are numerous embodiments of the methods and devices describedherein, all of which are intended to be non-limiting examples.

[0008] In some embodiments of the method, it may be desirable for thosewho either experience the emission of the fragrance composition(s), orwho are in the presence of the device(s) emitting fragrancecomposition(s), to experience and/or perceive a pleasant scent all ofthe time. In other cases, this may not be all of the time, but all ofthe time that such persons wish to perceive a fragrance. In someembodiments in which the method is used to emit two or more fragrancecompositions, it may be desirable to maximize the perceptibility of eachof two or more separate and distinct fragrance compositions. Thus, themethod can do more than merely prevent habituation to a given fragrancecomposition. In such embodiments, therefore, it may be desirable for thetime for emission of the fragrances not to change too quickly,otherwise, there will not be a perception of two different fragrances,but rather a blended scent. In other embodiments, however, it may alsobe desirable to provide a blended scent experience, for at least aperiod of time.

[0009] In one embodiment of the method, the volatile compositions arealternately emitted during discrete emission periods that are greaterthan 15 minutes and less than or equal to 24 hours. The device canautomatically switch to alternate the volatile composition beingemitted. In other embodiments, the device may emit volatile compositionsfor periods less than or equal to 15 minutes; or it may emit volatilecompositions for periods greater than 24 hours (e.g., 48 hours).Numerous other embodiments are possible.

[0010] The method can utilize one or more devices. In one embodimentthat emits fragrance composition(s), a single device is used that is adual scented “plug-in” that switches back and forth between two (ormore) scents. This embodiment of the device has a housing, and thehousing is supported on an electrical outlet by a plug at leastindirectly joined to the housing. The device contains a first volatilecomposition and a second volatile composition. The first volatilecomposition is emitted in an alternating period relative to said secondvolatile composition. Numerous other types of devices are possible. Forexample, in other embodiments, the method described herein can becarried out by two or more dispensing devices. Such dispensing devicescomprise any type of dispensing device, including, but not limited toaerosol sprayers.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] While the specification concludes with claims particularlypointing out and distinctly claiming the invention, it is believed thatthe present invention will be better understood from the followingdescription taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings inwhich:

[0012]FIG. 1 is a diagram that shows one non-limiting embodiment of anemission program for emitting two volatile compositions.

[0013]FIG. 2 is a diagram that shows one non-limiting embodiment of anemission program for emitting three (or more) volatile compositions.

[0014]FIG. 3 is a diagram that shows one non-limiting embodiment of anemission program for emitting two (or more) volatile compositions wherethere is a gap between the emissions of the volatile compositions.

[0015]FIG. 4 is a diagram that shows one non-limiting embodiment of anemission program for emitting two (or more) volatile compositions wherethere is an overlap of the emissions of the volatile compositions.

[0016]FIG. 5 is a diagram that shows one non-limiting embodiment of anemission program for emitting three (or more) volatile compositionswhere there is an overlap of the emissions of one volatile compositionwith the emission of two other volatile compositions.

[0017]FIG. 6 is a partially fragmented schematic front view showing onenon-limiting embodiment of a device for emitting volatile compositions.

[0018]FIG. 7 is a partially fragmented schematic side view of the deviceshown in FIG. 6.

[0019]FIG. 8 is a schematic top view of the device shown in FIG. 6,showing the same adjacent to the cover plate of an electrical outlet.

[0020]FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a printed circuit board that canbe used to control the device shown in FIGS. 6-8, along with the heatersand plug that are attached thereto.

[0021]FIG. 10 is a schematic of the circuit shown in FIG. 9.

[0022]FIG. 11 shows two aerosol devices that operate on timers.

[0023]FIG. 12 shows a single device comprising two aerosol containersthat operate on timers.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0024] The present invention relates to methods and devices for emittingvolatile compositions. In some embodiments, the invention relates tomethods and devices for emitting two or more volatile compositions.There are numerous embodiments of the methods and devices describedherein, all of which are intended to be non-limiting examples.

[0025] The methods for emitting volatile compositions can comprise avariety of different embodiments. The two or more volatile compositionscan be fragrance compositions, compositions that function asinsecticides, air fresheners, deodorants, aromacology, aromatherapy,insecticides, or any other material that acts to condition, modify, orotherwise charge the atmosphere or to modify the environment. The two ormore volatile materials emitted in a given embodiment of the method canbe the same type of material (e.g., two or more fragrance compositions),or they can be different types of materials (e.g., fragrancecompositions and air fresheners). Deodorants, or malodor controlcompositions may comprise a material selected from the group consistingof: odor neutralizing materials, odor blocking materials, odor maskingmaterials, and combinations thereof. The methods can emit the volatilecompositions in a sequence in which the emission of the differentvolatile compositions automatically alternates between the differentvolatile compositions.

[0026] The volatile compositions can be emitted in any suitablesequence. The sequence of emission of the volatile compositions can bein a pattern, or it can be random. The term “pattern”, as used herein,refers to repeating sequences. In embodiments where the sequence ofemission of the different volatile compositions is repeatable, thepattern can be repeated once, or any number of times after the initialsequence. The term “random”, as used herein, refers to sequences inwhich the sequence of emission of the volatile compositions does notrepeat in a regular fashion. It is also possible for an emissionsequence to comprise a portion of time where the sequence is in apattern, and a portion of time in which the sequence is random.

[0027] In some embodiments, two or more volatile compositions areemitted in an alternating sequence. For example, there can be a firstvolatile composition and a second volatile composition, and the firstvolatile composition is emitted in an alternating period relative tosaid second volatile composition. Thus, if the first volatilecomposition is designated “1”, and the second volatile composition isdesignated “2”, the volatile compositions can be emitted in analternating pattern as follows: 1, 2, 1, 2, . . . , etc. FIG. 1 showssuch an emission program schematically. In FIG. 1, the diagramrepresents the periods during which that the volatile compositions arebeing subjected to a source of energy (or “activated”) (for example, ifthey are in a device which has a heater that heats the compositions, thediagram can designate the periods of time that during which the heatersare on and off). If there are three volatile compositions, they can beemitted in an alternating pattern as follows: 1, 2, 3, 1, 2, 3, . . . ,etc. as shown in FIG. 2.

[0028] In viewing these figures (and the diagrams which follow), itshould be understood that these are non-limiting embodiments. In otherembodiments, there need not be a separate volatilization source (such asa heater) for each volatile composition. There can be any suitablenumber of volatilization sources for the volatile compositions. Forexample, a single volatilization source can be used to volatilize morethan one volatile composition. Such a volatilization source could, forexample, be capable of moving to volatilize the different volatilecompositions, or it can be capable of selectively directing energy(e.g., heat) to the different volatile compositions (such as by openingand closing a door or gate between the volatilization source and a givenvolatile composition). Alternatively, containers can be movable relativeto the volatilization source (so that the containers can be selectivelymoved over a heater, for example).

[0029] The term “interval”, as used herein, refer to the shortest periodof time in the emission sequence. The term “discrete emission period”,as used herein, refer to the individual time period that a givenvolatile material (or combination of volatile materials) is emitted inthe emission sequence. This may correspond generally to the period oftime that a heater, for example, is turned on for a given volatilematerial or combination of volatile materials (though there may be aslight lag between the operation of a heater and the emission of avolatile material). The discreet emission periods can also be referredto herein as a first time period, a second time period, etc. (each ofwhich has a beginning and end). It should be understood that it is notnecessary that the different volatile compositions be emitted for equaltime periods. For example, after one volatile composition is emitted, adifferent volatile composition can be emitted for a shorter, oralternatively, a longer time period. In another example, the after onevolatile composition is emitted, it can be followed by another intervalof the same volatile composition before a different volatile compositionis emitted. In cases where the different volatile compositions are notemitted for equal time periods, it may be desirable to provide a greateramount of the compositions that are emitted for a longer cumulative timeperiod so that the volatile compositions will be depleted at about thesame time. There are numerous possible alternating emission sequences.In the case of three volatile compositions, non-limiting examples ofsome other possible patterns of emission include, but are not limitedto: (1, 2 2, 1, 3 3); (1, 2, 3, 3, 2, 1); and (1, 2 2 2 2, 1 1, 3 3 3 3,1).

[0030] In some embodiments of the method, the volatile compositions canbe emitted during a discrete emission period that is less than or equalto about 15 minutes, but it may be more desirable for each emissionperiod to be longer than 15 minutes. In the case of scented materials,longer time periods may be more desirable. In one embodiment of themethod, the volatile compositions are alternately emitted duringdiscrete periods that are each greater than 15 minutes and less than orequal to about 12 hours, or less than or equal to about 24 hours, orless than or equal to about 48 hours, or more. Every numerical rangegiven throughout this specification will include every narrowernumerical range that falls within such broader numerical range, as ifsuch narrower numerical ranges were all expressly written herein. Thus,in another non-limiting embodiment, the volatile compositions arealternately emitted during periods that are greater than 15 minutes, orgreater than or equal to about 1 hour, and less than 2 hours. In oneembodiment, each volatile composition is emitted for a period of about72 minutes.

[0031] The volatile compositions may be emitted so that one immediatelyfollows the end of the emission period of the other. In otherembodiments, the volatile compositions can be emitted so that there is agap between the end of the emission period of one of the volatilecompositions, and the beginning of the emission period of anothervolatile composition. FIG. 3 is a diagram that shows one non-limitingembodiment of an emission program for emitting two volatile compositionswhere there is a gap between the emissions of the volatile compositionswhere “g” designates a gap. In other embodiments, the volatilecompositions can be emitted so that there is an overlap in the emissionperiods of two, or more volatile compositions. FIG. 4 is a diagram thatshows one non-limiting embodiment of an emission program for emittingtwo volatile compositions where there is an overlap of the emissions ofthe volatile compositions where the symbol “&” designates an emissionperiod where both volatile compositions are being emitted. FIG. 5 showsone non-limiting embodiment of an emission program for emitting three(or more) volatile compositions where there is an overlap of theemissions of one volatile composition with the emission of two othervolatile compositions. In other embodiments, it is possible for one ormore of the volatile compositions to be emitted continuously, andanother volatile composition to be emitted for periods of time that aregreater than 15 minutes.

[0032] If it is desirable to have a gap between the end of the emissionperiod of one of the volatile materials, and the beginning of theemission period of another volatile material, the gap can be of anysuitable duration. Suitable durations include, but are not limited anyperiods that are less than or equal to about 30 minutes. However, it isalso possible to have gap periods of greater than 30 minutes. If it isdesirable to have an overlap in the emission periods of two, or morevolatile materials, the overlap can be of any suitable duration. Theemission period of a subsequently emitted volatile material may overlapfrom greater than 0% up to 100% of the time a first volatile material isbeing emitted. In certain embodiments, for example, it may be desirablefor there to be an overlap of about 25% between different volatilematerials. For instance, instead of scent “A” being emitted for 60minutes, followed by scent “B” being emitted for 60 minutes: scent “A”can be emitted for 45 minutes; this can be followed by the emission ofboth scents “A” and “B” for 30 minutes; and this followed by scent “B”for 45 minutes. In this case, 30 minutes is 25% of the total time of theemission of scents “A” and “B” and the combination thereof (or 120minutes).

[0033] The gap or overlap periods can be controlled automatically. Incertain embodiments of the article(s) or device(s) used to emit thevolatile materials, the article(s) or device(s) can be provided withcontrols to allow the user to control the duration of any gap and/oroverlap in emission periods. Overlapping sequences may be used when itis desirable to have the user smell the blended scent for some period aswell as distinct scents during other periods.

[0034] In certain embodiments, it is desirable for the method to becarried out by article(s) and/or device(s) that are flameless (e.g., notcandles). In certain embodiments, it may also be desirable for themethod to be carried out independently of other media (such other mediamay include, but is not limited to: movies, television, etc.). In otherembodiments, it may be desirable to carry out the method in acoordinated fashion with other media.

[0035] There can be any suitable emission program or scheme for emittingthe volatile compositions. In certain embodiments where scentedmaterials are being emitted, it is desirable for the device to providean alternating scent experience, rather than a sustained impression of asingle scent. In one embodiment, it may be desirable to provide aday/night emission program where one scent is provided for waking aperson, and another scent is provided for the period of time duringwhich they are trying to go to sleep. Thus, in some embodiments, it maybe desirable to deliver the same scent at the same time every day. Inother embodiments, it may be desirable to avoid a routine scentexperience. For example, it may be desirable for the emission pattern tonot be synchronized over a 24 hour period, so that the user has adifferent scent experience at a given time during the day or night foreach 24 hour period. Numerous other embodiments are possible.

[0036] The total emission program (or simply “the emission program”)refers to the entire sequence of the discrete emission periods frombeginning to end. In certain embodiments, it is desirable for theemission program to be continuous. The term “continuous”, as used inreference to the emission program, means that there is a plannedemission sequence over an entire period, once the program is initiated.This emission program can include periods, as noted above, where thereare gaps in emission. This will still be considered to be a continuousemission program, although there will not necessarily be continuousemission of volatile compositions. It should be understood, however,that it is possible for the emission program to be interruptible by theuser (e.g., turned off), if desired. Thus, the method can provide a userinterface, and the user interface can provide a user with the ability tointerrupt emission program. In certain embodiments, the emission programmay be designed to run continuously, or substantially continuously untilat least one of the volatile compositions is substantially depleted. Incertain embodiments, it is desirable for the emission program to runcontinuously until all of the volatile compositions are substantiallydepleted, and for this to occur at approximately the same time. Theemission program can be of any suitable length, including but notlimited to 30 days, 60 days, or shorter or longer periods, or any periodbetween 30 to 60 days.

[0037] FIGS. 6-8 show one non-limiting embodiment of a device 20 foremitting volatile compositions according to the methods described above.The device can have a pre-selected emission program which is alreadyprogrammed when a consumer buys the device, or the device can beprovided with a selection of several emission programs and the consumercan select between these programs. In these or other embodiments, thedevice 20 can use technology similar to the “random play” technologyused in compact disc (CD) players to randomly alternate betweendifferent volatile materials.

[0038] As shown in FIGS. 6-8, the device 20 comprises a housing 22, andthe housing 22 is supported on an electrical outlet 24 by a plug 26 thatis at least indirectly joined to the housing 22. The device 20 furthercomprises at least one container. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 6-8,the device 20 comprises two containers 28 and 30. The containers 28 and30 contain at least a first volatile composition 32 and a secondvolatile composition 34. The housing 22 may serve as a holder for thecontainers 28 and 30 and any of the other components of the devicedescribed below.

[0039] The containers 28 and 30 can comprise any suitable type ofcontainer, and can be made of any suitable material. Suitable materialsfor the containers include, but are not limited to glass and plastic.The containers 28 and 30 can comprise any type of container that issuitable for holding volatile materials. The containers 28 and 30 may bepart of the housing 22, or they may be separate components that areremovably joined to a portion of the device 20 such as the housing 22.It is also possible for a single container to hold more than one type ofvolatile material. Such a container could, for instance, have two ormore compartments for volatile materials. In the embodiment shown inFIGS. 6-8, the containers 28 and 30 comprise two separate bottles.

[0040] The bottles comprising containers 28 and 30 in FIGS. 6-8 containvolatile compositions in the form of scented perfume oils. The bottlesfurther comprise a seal 36 for containing the volatile material, and awick 38 for dispensing the volatile material. The device 20 and/or thebottles 28 and 30 may further comprise an additional seal for coveringthe wick 38 of one or more of the volatile materials when the volatilematerial is not being emitted.

[0041] The term “volatile compositions” as used herein, refers to amaterial or a discrete unit comprised of one or more materials that isvaporizable, or comprises a material that is vaporizable. The term“volatile compositions”, thus, includes (but is not limited to)compositions that are comprised entirely of a single volatile material.The terms “volatile materials”, “aroma”, and “scents”, as used herein,include, but are not limited to pleasant or savory smells, and, thus,also encompass materials that function as insecticides, air fresheners,deodorants, aromacology, aromatherapy, insecticides, or any othermaterial that acts to condition, modify, or otherwise charge theatmosphere or to modify the environment. It should be understood thatcertain volatile compositions including, but not limited to perfumes,aromatic materials, and scented materials, will often be comprised ofone or more volatile materials (which may form a unique and/or discreteunit comprised of a collection of volatile materials). It should beunderstood that the term “volatile composition” refers to compositionsthat have at least one volatile component, and it is not necessary forall of the component materials of the volatile composition to bevolatile. The volatile compositions described herein may, thus, alsohave non-volatile components. It should also be understood that when thevolatile compositions are described herein as being “emitted”, thisrefers to the volatilization of the volatile components thereof, anddoes not require that the non-volatile components thereof be emitted.The volatile compositions of interest herein can be in any suitable formincluding, but not limited to: solids, liquids, gels, encapsulates,wicks, and carrier materials, such as porous materials impregnated withor containing the volatile material, and combinations thereof.

[0042] In the case of scented materials or fragrances, the differentscented materials can be similar, related, complementary, orcontrasting. It may not be desirable, however, for the scented materialsto be too similar if the different scented materials are being used inan attempt to avoid the problem of scent habituation, otherwise, thepeople experiencing the scents may not notice that a different scent isbeing emitted. The different scents can be related to each other by acommon theme, or in some other manner. For example, the different scentscan all be floral, fruit scents, etc. An example of scents that aredifferent, but complementary might be a vanilla scent and a Frenchvanilla scent.

[0043] The present invention also comprises a method of providingchoices of compatible volatile compositions, such as fragrancecompositions, to consumers. In one embodiment, such a method comprisesproviding fragrance compositions for use in one or more emittingdevices. More specifically, in one embodiment, the method can compriseproviding a consumer with a selection of two or more fragrancecompositions in containers that are configured for use in one or moreemitting devices; and providing some type of indicia to inform aconsumer which of the two or more fragrance compositions are compatiblefor use together. In other embodiments, containers can serve as theemitting devices (e.g., plug-in devices, aerosol cans, etc.). In certainembodiments, the method can pre-select for consumers two or morefragrance compositions that are complementary, yet discernablydifferent. In other alternative embodiments, the method can compriseselling such different volatile compositions together, such as in bundlepacks of (two, three, or more) volatile compositions. Any of theforegoing embodiments may be used in supplying consumers with theirinitial product(s), as well as with refills for the same. In certainembodiments, the method may comprise supplying consumers with types ofvolatile compositions other than, or in addition to, fragrancecompositions (for example, a fragrance composition and a malodorreducing composition).

[0044] The embodiment of the device 20 shown in FIGS. 6-8 furthercomprises a mechanism for activating the volatile materials from their“resting” state to an activated state. Such a component may include, butis not limited to a component that volatilizes or heats the volatilematerials. The device 20 may also contain a component, such as a fan,for diffusing or transporting the volatile materials into theenvironment or atmosphere. In various embodiments, the device 20 maycomprise a heater, a fan, or both, or some other type of mechanism.

[0045] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 6-8, the device 20 comprises atleast one heating system or heater, such as heaters 40 and 42. Theheaters 40 and 42 can comprise any suitable type of heater, and can belocated in any suitable location in or relative to the device 20. In theembodiment shown in FIGS. 6-8, the heaters 40 and 42 comprise heatingelements that are in the form of circular rings that at least partiallysurround the wicks 38 protruding from the bottles of the volatilecompositions.

[0046] The device 20 shown in FIGS. 6-8 further comprises a switchingmechanism 50 that changes the volatile material being emitted by thedevice 20. The switching mechanism 50 can comprise any suitable type ofmechanism that causes the device to change the volatile material beingemitted. In the embodiment shown, the switching mechanism controls theactivation of the heaters so that the heater will be turned on for thevolatile material which is desired to be emitted. Suitable switchingmechanisms include, but are not limited to: analog timing circuitry,digital circuitry, combinations of analog and digital circuitry,microprocessors, and mechanical actuation switches such as shape memoryalloys (NiTi wire) or bimetallic switches.

[0047] As shown in FIG. 9, in one non-limiting embodiment, the switchingmechanism 50 comprises a combination analog and digital circuit in theform of a printed circuit board (or “PCB”). The circuit comprises: asingle sided PC board 52; a capacitor designated C1; a pair of diodes D1and D2; three transistors Q1, Q2, and Q3; five resistors R1-R5; threecounters U1, U2, and U3; a third diode Z1. Any suitable type of heatercan be used for heaters 40 and 42, including but not limited toresistance heaters (several types of which are commercially available).The heaters 40 and 42, as well as the wall power plug 26, are alsoconnected to the circuit board 52 by wires 66. Suitable components forcircuit are set out in the following table: TABLE 1 Reference Number orLetter Component Properties C1 Capacitor, 1 microF, 250 V ElectrolyticD1, D2 Diode 1N4004, or similar 26 WaIl power plug Q1, Q2, Q3Transistors, NPN NPN 200 V, 200 mA R1-R5 Resistors ⅛ watt U1, U2, U3Counters CD4024, or similar Z1 Diode, Zener, 11 V 1N4741A, or similar

[0048] The components of the circuit may be through-hole or surfacemounted. In the embodiment shown, a 38×66 mm single sided PC board 52with through-hole components is used. The material comprising the PCboard 52 can be a standard material such as FR-4 epoxy base fiberglass,but any UL approved material is acceptable. The wall power plug 26 is amolded wall plug with approximately 100 mm pigtails into the PC board.FIG. 10 is a schematic of the circuit. This circuit provides a timingfunction that alternates current between two paths over a time period ofseveral tens of hours, with a pre-selected time for each heater to beturned on and off.

[0049] In other embodiments, the switching mechanism may include, but isnot limited to the following alternative types of switching mechanisms:(1) a magnetic sensor with a pickup that counts the number of rotationsof the motor of a fan used to disperse the volatile composition(s) suchthat after a certain number of rotations, the device will switch fromone volatile composition to another; and (2) a device comprising dualshape memory alloys, or bimetallic strips or switches that can completea circuit at ambient temperature and then cut-off when a certaintemperature is reached. The two-way effect can be used since as thetemperature lowers, the material can complete the circuit again, thusacting as a thermostat to keep the heater on and then turn it off. Theshape memory alloy may serve as the heater as well as the pulsegenerator.

[0050] The device 20 can comprise a number of additional optionalfeatures. The device can be provided with indicators so that a person isfurther made aware that the volatile material being emitted has changed.Such indicators can be visual and/or audible. For example, in the caseof scented materials, such an indicator may allow a person to see whichscent is being emitted at a given time. In the embodiment shown in FIGS.6-8, the indicators are in the form of lights 70 and 72. In anotherexample, at least a portion of the device 20 (such as all or a portionof the housing) or the containers may be made of a type of plastic thatchanges color when heated.

[0051] The device can be provided with additional user controls. Thedevice can comprise an “on/off” switch to allow a user to turn thedevice on and off without removing it from the electrical socket. Thedevice can be provided with a control that allows the user to controlthe emission period of the volatile materials, and/or the time betweenthe emission of the different volatile materials, or the time that thevolatile materials are emitted during an overlapping time period. Forexample, in one non-limiting embodiment, if the device is provided withthe capability of emitting each volatile material during a periodgreater than 15 minutes and less than or equal to 24 hours, then thedevice can be provided with a control that allows the user to set theemission period to 72 minutes, or to one hour, for example.

[0052] The device can be battery powered so that it need not be pluggedinto an electrical outlet. The device can also be configured so that itcan be both plugged in and powered by a source of electrical current,and also battery powered. The device can also be provided with anadapter so that it can be plugged into the cigarette lighter in avehicle. In addition, the device can be provided with a remote controlthat allows the user to control any, or all, of the emission propertiesof the device (including, but not limited to changing the volatilematerial being emitted) without touching the device.

[0053] The device can also be sold in the form of a kit that includesthe device and one or more containers of volatile compositions. Thedevice and/or kit can also include instructions for use that instructthe user regarding certain emission periods that may be used to producecertain results, and/or instructions regarding where to place the devicein a given space. For example, the instructions may include instructionsfor setting the device based on the size of the room, vehicle, etc. inwhich the device is placed. Such instructions may also includeinstructions to the user to chose more frequent changes between theemission of scented materials for greater scent awareness. Instructionsmay also be provided to specify how to operate the device relative toother devices. The instructions can be provided in any suitable form,e.g., written, audio, and/or video.

[0054] The device may comprise a microprocessor that has less componentparts compared to analog circuits, and improved circuit quality from lotto lot. The microprocessor can allow the user to program and control thetemperature profile by modulation to alter performance. If desired, themicroprocessor may be connected to a user interface. This can be anysuitable type of user interface. Examples of types of user interfacesinclude, but are not limited to LCD screens and LED's. In addition, themicroprocessor enables components to allow multiple devices (such asthose located in different parts of a room, or in different rooms), tocommunicate with each other. For example, the microprocessor can enablea remote control to send digital signals via an infared beam to turnanother device “on” or “off”.

[0055] Numerous other types of devices are possible. For example, inother embodiments, the method described herein can be carried out by twoor more dispensing devices. Such dispensing devices comprise any type ofdispensing device, including, but not limited to aerosol sprayers. FIG.11 shows one non-limiting embodiment of an arrangement of aerosolsprayers 80 and 82. The aerosol sprayers used in such a method canfunction in any suitable manner. In some embodiments, the aerosolsprayers may each operate independently, such as on timers 84 so thatthey alternate the emission of the volatile materials in the mannerdesired. The dispensing devices can be powered in any suitable manner,such as by a battery 86. The dispensing devices 80 and 82 may be locatedadjacent to each other, or they may be located in different parts of thespace in which it is desired to emit the volatile materials. FIG. 12shows another non-limiting embodiment of a dispensing device 88. In FIG.12, the dispensing device 88 is a single device that comprises two (ormore) dispensers, such as aerosol sprayers 90 and 92. The device 88 mayoperate on one or more timers, or sensors 96, and can be powered by oneor more batteries, or other power sources.

[0056] In some embodiments, the devices can be configured to turn on andoff in response to some stimulus, such as by sensors that respond tolight, noise and/or motion. For example, one of the devices can be setup to turn on when it senses light, and another device can be set toturn off when it senses light. In another example, a microprocessor canbe used with motion sensors to turn on the device (for example, a heaterand/or a fan in the device). For example, the device can be off all thetime until a person moves in the vicinity of the motion sensor. Thedevice can then turn on when a person walks in the vicinity of themotion sensor. Using a microprocessor provides flexibility incontrolling the characteristics of the emission of the volatilematerials. This is because it is possible to replace the microprocessorif it is desired to change the emission characteristics. Replacing themicroprocessor eliminates the need to modify the entire circuit.

[0057] The disclosure of all patents, patent applications (and anypatents which issue thereon, as well as any corresponding publishedforeign patent applications), and publications mentioned throughout thisdescription are hereby incorporated by reference herein. It is expresslynot admitted, however, that any of the documents incorporated byreference herein teach or disclose the present invention.

[0058] It should be understood that every maximum numerical limitationgiven throughout this specification will include every lower numericallimitation, as if such lower numerical limitations were expresslywritten herein. Every minimum numerical limitation given throughout thisspecification will include every higher numerical limitation, as if suchhigher numerical limitations were expressly written herein. Everynumerical range given throughout this specification will include everynarrower numerical range that falls within such broader numerical range,as if such narrower numerical ranges were all expressly written herein.

[0059] While particular embodiments of the subject invention have beendescribed, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that variouschanges and modifications of the subject invention can be made withoutdeparting from the spirit and scope of the invention. In addition, whilethe present invention has been described in connection with certainspecific embodiments thereof, it is to be understood that this is by wayof illustration and not by way of limitation and the scope of theinvention is defined by the appended claims which should be construed asbroadly as the prior art will permit.

What is claimed is:
 1. A system for emitting two or more volatilecompositions, said system comprising at least one device wherein saidtwo or more volatile compositions comprise a first volatile composition,a second volatile composition, and optionally additional volatilecompositions, wherein said at least one device is configured to emitsaid first, second, and optional additional volatile compositions in asubstantially continuous emission sequence in which the emission of thedifferent volatile compositions automatically alternates between thedifferent volatile compositions in the sequence.
 2. The system of claim1 wherein at least one of said two or more volatile compositionscomprises a fragrance composition.
 3. The system of claim 1 wherein twoor more volatile compositions comprise a fragrance composition.
 4. Thesystem of claim 1 wherein said two or more volatile compositions areemitted from a single device.
 5. The system of claim 4 wherein said atleast one device comprises a plug and said plug supports said at leastone device on an electrical outlet.
 6. The system of claim 1 whereinsaid at least one device comprises a single device comprising a housing,wherein said housing is supported on an electrical outlet by a plug atleast indirectly joined to said housing, and said housing containsreceptacles for said volatile compositions.
 7. The system of claim 1wherein said two or more volatile compositions are emitted from two ormore devices.
 8. The system of claim 7 wherein at least one of saiddevices comprises a plug that is adapted to plug into an electrical walloutlet and to support said at least one of said devices on a wall bysaid plug.
 9. The system of claim 7 wherein said two or more devicescomprise at least one aerosol sprayer.
 10. The system of claim 7 whereinat least one of said two or more devices further comprises a timer fortiming the emission of at least one of said volatile compositions. 11.The system of claim 7 wherein at least one of said two or more devicesfurther comprises a sensor for detecting a condition for emitting atleast one of said volatile compositions.
 12. The system of claim 11wherein said sensor is selected from the group consisting of: motionsensors, light sensors, and noise sensors.
 13. The system of claim 7wherein at least two of said two or more devices are configured tocommunicate with each other.
 14. The system of claim 1 wherein said atleast one device further comprises an indicator for informing the userof the device which volatile material is being emitted.
 15. The systemof claim 14 wherein said indicator is selected from the group consistingof: visual and audible.
 16. The device for emitting two or more volatilecompositions, said device comprising a housing, wherein said housing issupported on an electrical outlet by a plug at least indirectly joinedto said housing, and said housing contains receptacles for said volatilecompositions wherein said two or more volatile compositions comprise afirst volatile composition, a second volatile composition, andoptionally additional volatile compositions, wherein said device isconfigured to emit said first, second, and optional additional volatilecompositions in a substantially continuous emission sequence in whichthe emission of the different volatile compositions automaticallyalternates between the different volatile compositions in the sequence.17. The device of claim 16 further comprising a heater in said housingfor volatilizing at least one of said volatile compositions.
 18. Thedevice of claim 16 further comprising a fan in said housing fordispersing at least one of said volatile compositions.
 19. The device ofclaim 16 further comprising a heater and fan in said housing foremitting at least one of said volatile compositions.
 20. The device ofclaim 16 wherein at least one of the volatile compositions is in aliquid form.
 21. The device of claim 20 wherein at least one of thevolatile compositions is supplied in a container provided with a wick.22. The device of claim 21 further comprising at least one heaterwherein said at least one heater surrounds the wick of said container.23. The device of claim 22 wherein said at least one heater is operatedelectrically.
 24. The device of claim 16 further comprising a timingmechanism wherein said volatile compositions are each emitted during aperiod that is greater than 15 minutes and less than or equal to about48 hours.
 25. The device of claim 16 further comprising a control whichallows a user of the device to select a desired emission period withinthe range of greater than 15 minutes and less than or equal to about 24hours.
 26. The device of claim 16 wherein said volatile compositions areemitted during a period that is less than or equal to about 15 minutes.27. A device for emitting at least one volatile composition, said devicecomprising a housing and a plug that is adapted to plug into anelectrical wall outlet and to support said device on a wall by saidplug, said device further comprising a detection device wherein saiddetection device is programmed to turn on said device in response to astimulus.
 28. The device of claim 27 wherein said detection device isselected from the group consisting of: motion sensors, light sensors,and noise sensors.
 29. A system for emitting two or more volatilecompositions, said system comprising: (a) a first device capable ofemitting one or more volatile compositions comprising at least a firstvolatile composition; (b) a second device capable of emitting one ormore volatile compositions comprising at least a second volatilecomposition; and (c) optional additional devices capable of emitting oneor more optioinal additional volatile compositions; wherein said first,second, and optional additional volatile compositions are emitted in asubstantially continuous emission sequence in which the emission of thedifferent volatile compositions automatically alternates between thedifferent volatile compositions in the sequence.
 30. A method forproviding fragrance compositions for a system that emits two or morefragrance compositions, said method comprising: (a) providing a consumerwith a selection of two or more fragrance compositions, said fragrancecompositions being provided in containers wherein said containers areconfigured for use in one or more emitting devices, or as stand alonearticles; and (b) providing some type of indicia to inform a consumerwhich of said two or more fragrance compositions are compatible for usetogether.
 31. The method of claim 30 wherein said two or more fragrancecompositions are complementary, yet discernably different.